Implant Restorations

What is an implant restoration?

Implant restorations are crowns and bridges that we at Eric Heim Dental place on top of an implant.

Why would I need a dental implant?

Implants are recommended by Dr. Heim after you have lost a tooth. An implant is a titanium screw that is placed into your bone. After the implant is given enough time to heal into the bone a restoration can be placed. There needs to be enough bone to place an implant, so the surgeon may need to do a bone graft to acquire enough bone.

What are the benefits to having a dental implant?

In most situations when you are missing a tooth an implant is the best replacement option. There is no need to drill on the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth. You are able to floss the teeth next to the implant. The implant is able to be used like a regular tooth. Dental implants have a very high success rate.

What is the time frame for a dental implant?

The time frame can vary from patient to patient. After having a tooth extracted, you could either have the surgeon place the implant at the same appointment or have the bone heal for 4-5 months prior to implant placement. After the dental implant has been placed, there is another 4-5 month healing period. After the healing period, Dr. Heim is able to take a digital scan or an impression of your implant. The lab will fabricate the necessary crown or bridge to replace your missing tooth. Once the implant crown or bridge is received from the lab, Dr. Heim will deliver it to you in the office.